New Outer Grip Technique Used by Elite Gymnasts in Performing the Felge to Handstand Mount

Abstract

The subjects were 25 American and 28 Japanese gymnasts filmed during national championships. Performances were analyzed to determine the effect of grip technique at bar regrasp. It was hypothesized that the new outer grip technique would achieve significantly higher body angle and center of gravity (CG) than the inner grip technique at bar regrasp, qualities that are essential for successful performance of the basket to handstand mount on the parallel bars. It was further hypothesized that the new outer grip technique would achieve significantly (a) greater angular speed of arm rotation and vertical displacement of CG during the upward inverted swing and (b) higher body angle and CG at bar release. The results revealed significant differences in all of the areas hypothesized in favor of the new outer grip technique. Although the technique must be refined to control the tendency for excessive body arching at bar release, the new outer grip has the technical advantage for pursuing virtuosity points and new maneuvers.